The cinematic experience: A Question of Preference
In a candid conversation with filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, david cronenberg shared his thoughts on the cinematic experience, questioning whether communal movie-going is inherently superior to watching films in isolation.
“ I only see movies in real theaters every once in a while, mostly at film festivals, and I’ve found that the projection isn’t always so great,” Cronenberg said. “I remember being in Venice onstage with Spike Lee and some others. He was talking about the Cathedral of Cinema, the whole religious aspect of it. And I said, ‘Spike, I’m watching “Lawrence of Arabia” on my watch, and there are a thousand camels there. I can see every one of them.’ I was joking, but what I meant was, I don’t find the cinema experience all that great. Maybe it’s because I’m older. I don’t feel that communal thing.”
A Key Consideration for the Auteur
Cronenberg’s views on the cinematic experience are consistent with the themes of change and adaptation that are prevalent throughout his filmography. His movies often explore the tension between embracing innovation and risking being left behind by the natural course of events. This idea is reflected in his thoughts on celluloid film and digital cameras.
- Celluloid film, with its limited capacity and logistical challenges, has given way to digital cameras, which offer greater convenience and control.
- Cronenberg has stated that he no longer misses working with film, citing the restrictive nature of the medium and the lack of control it offers.
- The shift to digital technology has also enabled filmmakers to have more control over their work, allowing for greater creative freedom and experimentation.
A Critic’s Pick: The Shrouds
Cronenberg’s latest film, “The Shrouds,” has received widespread critical acclaim. Following its premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, IndieWire’s David Ehrlich praised the film, labeling it a “Critic’s Pick.”
“Inspired by the loss of the director’s wife, ‘The Shrouds’ is a grief story as only David Cronenberg would ever think to shoot one,” IndieWire’s review read. “Sardonic, unsentimental, and often so cadaverously stiff that the film itself appears to be suffering from rigor mortis, as if its images died at some point along their brief journey from the projector to the screen. And really, what else would you expect?”
Highlights of The Shrouds
• A unique blend of drama and horror
• Exploration of grief and loss through unconventional means
• A bold, avant-garde approach to storytelling
Auteur’s Perspective: A Grief Story as Only He Would Tell
Cronenberg’s latest film, “The Shrouds,” is a masterclass in narrative innovation. By exploring the complexities of grief and loss through the lens of live-streaming, Cronenberg offers a fresh and thought-provoking take on the genre. His use of digital technology allows for greater control and experimentation, enabling him to push the boundaries of what is possible in filmmaking. In the end, Cronenberg’s thoughts on the cinematic experience and his approach to filmmaking highlight the importance of creativity and innovation in the industry. As a filmmaker who has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible, Cronenberg offers a unique perspective on the art of storytelling.
